The best (and worst) things to buy in January 2019

The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.

Happy New Year! You’ve survived the holiday season. And although you might be feeling the shopping hangover, retailers are making it hard to resist a good deal.

With the new year comes big savings in many (but not all) categories. So, what should you buy — and not buy — in January? Below are our tips and shopping picks for putting those gift cards to good use all month long.

Holiday decor

It’s no secret that the period after Christmas is the best time to stock up on marked-down holiday decor. And starting on Jan. 1, you can take advantage of even bigger reductions and clearance pricing on artificial trees, ornaments and fancy wrapping paper.

Winter Coats and Accessories

32 Degrees Packable Hooded Puffer Coat. (Photo: Macy’s)

Is your favorite parka on its last thread? Or maybe you want to finally splurge on that top-rated packable puffer jacket you’ve wanted all season. Either way, winter coats—plus jackets, boots and more — get the sale treatment this month.

Bedding and linens

LC Lauren Conrad Lila Queen Comforter Set. (Photo: Kohl’s)

Historically known as the month for “white sales,” January is the best time of year to buy discounted linens, from sheets to towels. In the 19th century, to boost sales, department stores marked down linens, which at the time were only available in white. Today, you can take advantage of the savings on comforters, sheets, towels and more to spruce up your linen closet. However, steer clear of purchasing a mattress this month, since those sales tend to be reserved for Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Gym memberships and fitness gear

Black Mountain Products Resistance Band Set. (Photo: Amazon)

If 2019 is the year you kick off your health and fitness journey, you’ll be pleased to know that gyms and fitness retailers want to help you with that resolution. Expect gyms to waive initiation fees and offer free personal training sessions and discounts on monthly rates.

Not ready to commit to a gym membership or prefer to work out at home? January is the best month to stock up on fitness gear, from dumbbells and running shoes to yoga mats and fitness trackers.

Travel

January happens to fall in the middle of the travel off-season, which is good news for travelers because there are deals to be had. It’s the perfect time to visit big cities like Paris, New York, Chicago, Barcelona and Miami. Expedia and Booking.com are great for booking flights and hotels together to maximize your savings. This month is also the start of cruise-booking season, so be on the lookout for discounts, free excursions, cabin upgrades and more.

Be ready to dust off your favorite suitcase too, because the only downside to taking advantage of travel savings is that luggage isn’t on sale this time of year.

Electronics and tech

If you missed out on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, we have good news. As retailers make space for the latest TVs and laptops coming out in 2019, you can score huge savings on a shiny new laptop or television just in time for the Super Bowl. Be on the lookout for those Best Buy and Amazon deals sooner rather than later because they go quick.